A JUDGE who spared a cannabis user from a jail sentence told him he was taking into account new Government thinking on the drug.

Barber shop owner Shane Taylor, 30, admitted possessing cannabis with intent to supply - but only to his friends.

He said a group of them, sportsmen who played in the same football team, bought it in bulk because it was cheaper that way.

He told the police he had used it for 12 years and had a #40 per week habit. He was charged after police found pieces of the drug at his business and home addresses. They also discovered a list of names.

But defence barrister Peter Davies told Cardiff Crown Court: 'Unusually in these cases, far from being anonymous, the five men named are all here in court to give evidence for him if necessary. Even at risk to themselves, they are willing to say the cannabis was bought by him for them.'

Taylor, of Marlborough Close, Llantwit Fardre, who part owns the Gentlemen's Chair Barber Shop in Glyn Coed Road, Llanedeyrn, Cardiff, had glowing references. Recorder Charles Cook said: 'You work for charity and help youngsters. I am loath to deprive others of the benefits you bring them.

'I am aware of the fact there is a climate of reconsideration in relation to this substance going on at government level.

'Although you admit supplying it, this is more an aggravated form of joint possession. I am not going to send you away but don't think you can expect another court to repeat it if you reoffend.'

Taylor was fined #1,000 and ordered to pay the #250 prosecution costs and #750 towards his defence. A 28-day jail sentence was imposed in default of payment.